Read What Others Have to Say AboutA.P.P.S

As a retired police officer, I have attended many training courses throughout my career. This was without a doubt one of the finest courses I have ever attended.Jerry Williams - Premier Investigations

To Whom It May Concern:I have trained with the Academy of Personal Protection and Security (APPS) for many years. I have taken every handgun self defense course APPS’s offered from the basic to the most advance. I have also trained with other institutions offering both self defense courses as well as institutions offering only handgun skills and trust me; there is a distinct difference in the skills and mind set involved in the training for self defense and mere handgun shooting skills. The philosophy involved with real world self defense as demonstrated by APPS (Nashville), Range Master (Memphis),The Range Inc (Centerville), and Tactical Response (Camden) is an in your face yelling and screaming event with the use of words and role playing that one would not hear in church. Additionally Tactical Response and South Narc (Southern Mississippi), in the more advanced classes, both utilize role playing that involved the usage of profanity, confrontations and physical assault upon the trainees. On the other hand, the “shooting” classes I have attended only involved the teaching of skills needed to hit a target from about three yards to 25 yards and these classes had no role playing involved and no aspect of self defense.As I recall, in the classes taught by APPS, Buford Tune and his staff, we students were advised at the beginning of the courses that role playing would be involved in the training and Mr. Tune said something to the effect that if harsh language or cursing was offensive then he would refund the money paid for the training but to expect an in your face course. I have observed that the true self defense courses that I have experienced that offer real world circumstances to include role playing, yelling, screaming and the use of foul language have all be taught by active duty law enforcement officers or retired law enforcement officer. The mild mannered shooting classes have been conducted by civilians.Mr. Tune requested that I provide my observations and experiences of his teaching method with that of others and what I have described reflect those experiences.

William F Taylor - Attorney at Law

To whom it may concern,We have used APPS for our training for a long time and for many reasons, but first and foremost in my mind, the reason we use APPS is because of the “up front” and “in your face” approach that me and my Officers get by doing our training with APPS. I am a realist, and because I am a realist, there is nowhere else I would rather have my Officers train because when a bad situation presents itself, the perpetrator is not going to approach you with gentle and nice words and a kind attitude. Mr. Buford Tune’s “no-nonsense” attitude and approach to training is not only great for the experience of hearing (first hand in a non-threatening setting) exactly what you will hear in threatening situations (so you have great opportunity to hone in your listening and discerning skills), but you will be educated on that training which will save your life! Anyone who knows Mr. Tune and has sat under his training knows very well that he cares greatly for the safety of those who have put their trust in him for their training. He stays in constant communication with those who are desirous to actually learn their trade very well by sending out e-mails about training, situations other Officers have been in, even situations where other Officers have been injured or killed; and Mr. Tune always adds his commentary that keeps you thinking about your profession and on your toes. Although thankfully I have never had to call on Mr. Tune for this, he has appeared in court with his trainee’s before who have been brought up on false claims, and this service (or assurance) in the fact that if I do what Mr. Tune teaches me to do when confronted with bad situations and always do what he has trained me to do, he will go to bat for me, and that proves to me personally that not only does he care that I do or not do what the Law requires me to do or not do, be he cares to make sure I get to come home to my family every night.I, personally, have yet to see or hear of training that even comes close to APPS and I have mandated that all my Officers go there for their training and recertification’s. I believe in APPS, and because of that, I felt compelled to write this letter to show my great appreciation to Mr. Tune and his staff for all they do to keep me and my Officers safe, and because they truly care to make sure that, even though me and my Officer’s have chosen a profession that could be dangerous, Mr. Tune and his staff care greatly about making sure we keep everything safe at our facility, but most important of all, Mr. Tune and his staff care greatly that me and my Officers make it home to our families after work.Should anyone ever have need to speak to me personally about these things, my contact information can be found below.

Buford and the rest of the staff-The training I received the past couple of days has been top notch. I've gotten a lot of training over the years but this was the rawest, more in-your-face training I've ever had and in the field of armed security it's a necessity. I can't wait until I can afford to take some more training. I appreciate you all and you will be sure to see my face quite frequently in the coming months/years!

Galen Norman

Dear Buford, I was a student at the Handgun Carry Permit class that you taught last Saturday, May 4. I chose APPS because of your reputation and experience, which I followed through television and the newspapers many prior years ago.The class could have been a tedious lecture but you made it pleasant and enjoyable. Your ability to connect with your students (audience) is remarkable. Through good humor and jokes, you convey essential information on the role and responsibility of owning and carrying handguns. I learned a great deal and I want you to know how much I appreciate it. Keep up the great work you do to keep our citizens safe. Best personal regards,Robert L. (Bob) Shepherd

Hello sir,my names Jerry Edgin and I attended your armed guard class and just wanted to let you know that the wealth of knowledge gained from your class was impeccable and superseded any expectations I previously had regarding this training. Please note that I will in fact be attending any and all training I can at your academy. I firmly believe in not sugarcoating the truth nor am I one for beating around the bush, especially since good training and the use of common since and practicing skills is fundamental in surviving in this occupation I have chosen. This is a huge deal to me as I have a beautiful wife and two children, a son named Nicholas, age 5 , and my princess Sarah, age 4, who is disabled. I chose this profession with my family in mind and the eager anticipation of being the best I can be at this job. And the only way I feel this is possible is by listening to the advice and practicing what only you can provide. I am not attempting to brown nose you; I am simply speaking from the heart. Please email back with info on your upcoming baton, taser, pepper spray & handcuff class as I fully intend to be there.

Thank you for your time

Jerry Edgin

Buford,I began working a downtown area in 2010. I have been touched by the cities less fortunate. Today’s “street people” aren’t just the stereotypical “skid row” types. In this economy, we are seeing more and more families who, just a short time ago, were living well. It has opened my eyes a lot, and for that I praise God.Let me say that, in my opinion, the training you offer through APPS is second to none. I am proud to consider the men and women who complete your training and go on to work as security professionals our “Brothers And Sisters.” Keep up the good work!

And, everyone, Be Safe Out There!

Scott Robinson - Police Officer Since 1979 (Now Retired as of 2012)

BufordI want to share a story of road rage I experienced the other day. I was at Kroger's picking up a prescription at the drive thru at Providence. Once I got my prescription I drove thru and there where trucks behind the store blocking my view from the left. As I pulled out to see if anyone was coming a car blew his horn at me and flipped me off. I put up my hand as to say I'm sorry, I see you. As he went bye and pulled down to the stop sign, I fell in right behind him. All of a sudden a young guy jumped out of the passengers side all swelled up cussing me up and down and made his way back to my truck. It had not gotten hot yet and I had my windows down. Right away I got that sick feeling that this punk was nothing but trouble and I felt threaten, and before I could get a word in he leaned over into the passenger side window calling me all kinds of MF and that I needed my ass kicked, and you know the story. I told him not to put his hands on me and get his finger out of my face. He appeared to be crazy or on drugs or both! I ask him if he was threatening me, and that he needed to back off and calm down before someone gets hurt and it wasn't going to be me. I had my gun with me but remembered in your class the story of the guy who was beating up a car with a tire tool but did not come around to the drivers side of the car. As I reached for my gun, he started to back off, still cussing and kicked my truck. Thank God I took your class! You know that if not for you classes I would have pulled my gun and possibly shot that punk, once he reached in the window, and spent the rest of my life in prison.I can't explain into words how this incident made me sick to my stomach, but because of the intensive training I received from you and all the people from Apps I was able to keep my head and think before I made a stupid mistake that could have turned out bad. I want to thank you for what you do.

SincerelyMichael Bargatze

Mr. Tune,I attended yesterdays class (the baton portion) and would just like to say thank you. Many things you talked about left a lasting impression that I won't be able to forget. I learned a great deal and will refer anyone else interested in any security/firearm training to your school. I would also like to thank you for the extra material you gave me regarding the baton and S.I.C.D.S.. Also I would like to join your mailing list. I thought I may have been on it but I believe I was mistaken. Thank you again for your time.

Sincerely,J. Ryan Lee

Dear Buford,Just a few lines to say Thank You for the benefit of your years of experience as a Law Enforcement Officers.Some people may think that your methods are rude, vulgar, offensive and rash, but as you said, “If you can’t take it in the class, how will you be able to deal with it on the job?” Personally, I think that’s the perfect way to prepare your students to deal with the criminal elements that we will be facing. You add and element of comedy while leaving no doubt that this is a serious matter. You are sort of like the Don Rickles of Security Training.Your courses may be a little more expensive than others, but the knowledge I gained from you gives me the confidence I need to know I can do my job safely and efficiently, and I consider every penny VERY WELL SPENT!I consider it an honor and a privilege to have been trained by you, and I will always consider you a very good friend. There is no doubt that you are genuinely concerned for the safety and well being pf you students. You will forever have my never ending gratitude.

Sincerely,Perry E, Maynard (Mickey)P.S. Feel free to use this letter in nay way you see fit. THANK YOU

Dear James Tune, (Buford)Just recently I had the pleasure of attending your security officer and armed security officer classes at APPS. Honestly, I did not arrive excitedly because for me this was just another re-certification in a new US state. My attitude quickly changed as the course turned out to be interesting and very worth while. A back to the basics class for me.For the purpose of this letter I must point out that I have lawfully carried a gun during duty for over three decades. I never lose sight of my responsibilities or the possible deadly risks those who carry guns take the moment we strap one or our side. Like you, I have survived several close calls because of training. I possess a documented thirty four (34) year background in providing security and investigative services. I have spent the last twenty five years in leadership and top management positions with corporations and educational facilities. I have owned and managed security companies and Investigation agencies in six US states; now too include the grate state of Tennessee. Without further expansion of my professional experiences and acquired knowledge the reader should gather that I have attended many state, federal and private classes and seminars. Your wall of certificates is the most impressive I have ever seen. I too have trained and mentored many people over the years. When it comes to training security officers about the bold realities of our field you Mr. Tune are the "man". Quite frankly the best I have meet. Never before have I witnessed a trainer willing to "get down and dirty" with the recruits like you do. You strip away the facades, the BS of politics and the lies leaving only the brutal facts and realities that security officers face every day. You push emotional buttons, curse and roll play realistically. You make certain each and every attendee gets the full message even if that means going deep into overtime. Your constant message that we must never stop learning and practicing our trade skills is rock solid advise. You actually care and that impressed me most. It is my intention to attend, as well as recommend, all the courses offered at APPS. I am big on public service, volunteering and the concept of pay-it-forward. Should there arise a need for help in any way please feel free to call on me.

Sincerely,The Yankee!

I called the other company and told him I needed a full time job and he did not have anything, but thought there might be a change in the future in one of his office buildings, I asked him to keep me in mind, for the future.Well, believe this! They called me and offered me a full time position in Cool Springs. I have been here for about a month now and I am loving the position here. It's unarmed and protected by security badges and a camera system that is VERY IMPRESSIVE. I really like this position and it is really working out great for us all.I know that it was my idea to start a new career in Security, but your training in the classroom and in the firing range was key to me securing this position with ISMG who only hires APPS trained people. So this is just a short letter of thanks to you and Teresa and your entire crew at APPS for working together as a team and getting me started in a new career. It is the first time that I interviewed for a position when the company was looking for a mature APPS trained person. So I have a great career with a great company in a huge 375,000 sq ft building and I like the people that I work with and the company that I work for.

Thanks again, John David Haynes

Buford, thanks for all that I learned this past week in your class. I feel that I have accomplished the goals that I set for myself. I have a lot more knowledge about guns, their safe handling and confirmed that the best weapon I will ever have is my common sense backed up by the training you provided.Keep up the good leadership and valuable lessons. We are lucky to have you in Nashville. Thank you for setting the standard so high. You are a masterful teacher.

Best regards,Kathleen C.

I just wanted to say that your certification class was one of the best I have found. Your experience and excellent teaching methods gave me the training I needed to be more alert to my surroundings and better able to do my job. Sincere thanks for your public service and willingness to share your expertise with others. I will be calling you for other classes in the very near future.

This is Al Willis and I was in yesterday's (March 17, 2009) Baton, Spray, Taser, and Handcuffs class. Just wanted to say "thanks" for a very informative and memorable class that I won't soon forget (if ever)!. I wish I could say that I enjoyed being pepper sprayed and Tasered, but I'd be lying. It was terrible, but a necessary experience to really understand what we may experience on the streets. And that's what makes your classes stand out over the rest - the "real world" situations and experiences that others only talk about. I can truly say that A.P.P.S. offers a quality training product!

Thanks again!Al Willis

I was in your armed guard class nearly a year ago. I wanted to drop you a note to thank you for the training I received and the assistance your office gave me in my search for employment.On May 24, 2009, I was working hotel security at the Hutton Hotel on West End. I confronted a homeless man on the property who I’d previously trespassed. While instructing him to leave the property, he pulled a knife on me. Due to your training, I was more prepared for this type of situation, I produced my sidearm, a .45 Glock (you know one of your hated “plastic guns” J). The vagrant decided to leave the property at that time, and MNPD caught him near Baptist Hospital within 10-15 minutes.I am certainly glad that he didn’t wish to try to fight and that I was not forced to shoot him, but I’m certain that I would have been better prepared for such due to the training I received from you. Thank you.The following week, I was promoted to Field Supervisor for Vinson Guard Service with the opportunity to advance further as business increases. I will only be hiring persons who have received their training from you as those positions become available.Again, Thank you for the training you provide.

Sincerely,Wayne DJ Crawford

Good Morning, afternoon, or evening however you may be receiving this…This is Sergeant Jonathan L. Batey of the Department of Campus Safety and Security @ Meharry Medical College. I received armed security/officer training from you in 2006, since then I have furthered my training by becoming a graduate of the P.O.S.T. training course in Cleveland Tn. I was recently promoted to the 2nd shift Sergeant position shortly after receiving P.O.S.T. training. Although I was a former Correctional Officer for T.D.O.C., I feel that your training was the start of my current upgrade not only in the Law Enforcement field but in life as well. My outlook and perspective on life has dramatically changed for the better since your training and I’ve been inspired to continue it. I remember that you said every opportunity that arrived for you to receive more training, you jumped on it. That’s exactly what I plan on doing. Basically Mr. Tune you’re an inspiration. I’m young and basically new to all of this but I’m determined to learn as much as I can. Overall I just wanted to say Thank You and request that you add me to your e-mail list for any updates on training programs and certification classes.

I just took the handgun carry permit class this past weekend and while my head is still reeling with all the information Buford tried to put in it, I left tired, but elated and thrilled and very grateful for that experience. Mr. Tune is an amazing instructor and I will heartily recommend your program to anyone interested in getting their carry permit.

Thank you,Betsy Roubik

Buford, Just wanted to take a minute again and thank you for the wonderfully informative presentation you provided us with at the conference. I had several people tell me they were not aware of the many types of fraud that was out there, and I also had several others comment that they would like to see you again at some of our future conferences.I really appreciate the way you presented the information so that everyone could understand it. So many times, someone will come in and start talking in very technical or specific terms and many do not understand what the speaker is trying to relay, but that was not the case with your presentation.Just wanted to once again say “job well done!"

To Whom It May Concern:We just completed the Hand Gun Carry Permit course with Buford Tune of A.P.P.S. and wanted to take the time to tell you how much we enjoyed his course and the experience. Buford made the class enjoyable and you could really tell that he is genuine in what he teaches. Unlike the other “one-day courses”, we got the sense that he wants to make sure you get the most out of the course. It’s not just about making a quick buck like the other “one-day courses” out there. The main deciding factor for us to go with Buford’s course was the fact that carrying a gun is a huge responsibility and should not be taken lightly. The fact that the other courses certified you in just one-day seemed a bit irresponsible to us. After taking the course, we could tell that Buford really cares about the law as well as the safety of law abiding citizens and their families.At the firing range, Buford was great about answering any questions everyone had and taking the time to make sure everyone was comfortable with what they were doing. His staff was also really helpful and informative. We will recommend him to anyone we know and personally plan to continue educating ourselves with upcoming classes.

Melissa & Brett IveyLebanon Tn 37087

I want to thank you folks for an excellent day at the range (Jan 19) even if it was cold. I am a retired police officer and I have been shooting handguns for over 30 years. Almost all of my training has been drawing and firing from a uniform duty belt. It wasn't until I was on the range with Buford and the guys that it hit me that I wasn't wearing a duty belt anymore and needed to learn a new way to fight. Thanks for the introduction to a new method. Now I just have to unlearn everything my body was trying to tell me to do out there.

Paul Carr

Good morning,About the training we just had. Great job! You gave us a lot of information in only 2 days. I will have to spend the next 2 weeks digesting and evaluating the information. Today I will just have to read all the material.

Baton:This was one of the best classes I have taken on the baton. The instruction and the practice was good because we were allowed to be the instructor during the class. As a class on becoming an instructor that was what the students need. I think that was the only problem I had with the classes. We should of had more time being the instructors. I can sit in class and discuss everything but doing it is what makes the learning set in. One of the things I have learned over the years is that I do not know it well unless I do it. I would of liked to have seen the students get up and teach what they learned. I know my group will not have a problem getting up and teaching but some people are just not good at teaching.

Pepper Spray:I hated that part. But that was important that I felt the affects of the spray. Great job!

Sudden In-Custody Death Syndrome:An area that I was not aware of. Great information and something that I will defiantly have to include in my training.

Defensive Tactics:Another good area that I have been working on to include in my training. Good information that I can borrow from you and include in my training.

Handcuffing and Control Tactics:Again another good area and very helpful information.

Overall I have no complaints other that noted above. I am meeting with Mr. Andrew Rucker this morning and I will talk to my other 2 trainers to see if they have anything to say about your training. I will highly recommend you to everyone I meet.

Richard Ley

To Buford & staff, Thank you for a truly unique and informative class. Recommended to you by Metro Police Lt. Donald Hawkins, I only wish that your class would have been longer. While you had an inordinate amount of information packed into the classroom hours, I can't help but to ponder how much more discernible information could be had with maybe a three day course. Which is precisely the reason I plan on returning for your intermediate and advanced classes. Things which make me pause for thought after attending your class is just how misinformed so many people are in personal protection, not so much through no fault of their own, rather than the false sense of security imbedded due to a lack of training from other classes. Your class had shown me that i need to undo some thirty years of thinking from military training, and force myself to think of street survival tactics. Not that I plan to be a vigilante, my collection of guns is more of a hobby for enjoyment, however, when the home security system starts barking at 2 a.m., I am so much more aware as to what I need to do to protect myself both physically and legally.When you asked for critique at the end of the class, one thing I failed to think of was that there are two widely published and least read books in the world, the Bible and the owner's manual of a car. May I add that you might want people to read the owner's manual for their particular firearm, and if not having one, they may get it for free from the manufacturer (most current or late manufactured weapons). What made me think of this was a comment a fellow student made in regards to returning for your intermediate class with a particular weapon of which I also happen to own, and while I am somewhat versed with this particular weapon, its feasibility for street survival could very well get oneself killed, and had he taken the time to read his manual, he would see the futility. I would much rather have Buford in a foxhole with me than him.Thank you for opening my eyes and giving me not only a great course, but also much pause for thought.

Herman A BodkinNashville, TN

To Buford and the APPS STAFFLet me start off by saying thanks to the APPS family for the wonderful training. I have had some years in training in firearms but the courses APPS offer are superb. I would encourage any company or individual to take APPS training courses. With the classes offered at all levels from CPR to tactical firearm training for unarmed to armed security and law enforcement, etc. There is no where else than can touch APPS. Thanks again toBuford the and Apps staff.

Eric Blake

Tennessee Department of SafetyHandgun Permit Division

Recently, as a new resident of middle Tennessee, I had a very good experience that I wanted to let you know about. After moving to Murfreesboro last spring, I decided, for my own personal safety, to take training to qualify for a permit to carry a handgun. I attended the training course at Academy of Personal Protection and Security (APPS), owned and operated by Mr. Buford Tune and his wife Judy. Mr. Tune is a former Metro police officer with extensive training in law enforcement and years of experience in teaching others about the use of handguns. Before I decided to take training at APPS, I learned that there are several places in the area which offer training to qualify for a handgun permit. I questioned why most of the other training courses consisted of a total of 4-6 hours while APPS offered a course lasting two days, a total of 14 hours in the classroom and on the range. After completing the training at APPS, I am now even more concerned. The content covered by Mr. Tune was comprehensive and thorough. As a preventative measure, he discussed MANY potential problematic situations with handguns. As a proactive measure, he addressed the safe and legal storage, transport and use of a handgun in a very informative and effective way. The second day on the range was spent with more instruction, including demonstration by the instructor and hands-on learning by the students. As a teacher, administrator and professor of 30 years, I know good teaching when I see it. After completing that class, I question how a shorter class could possibly cover all the important information and objectives that Mr. Tune covered. It also gives me concern for my own safety because I wonder if inadequately trained people are carrying handguns in my own neighborhood! I will close my letter with a commendation for Mr. Tune. He combines experience with effective delivery and humor to offer outstanding training. I can say this having entered the class as a complete novice, and completing it with a healthy respect for handguns and a cautious confidence in my new abilities. Tennessee should offer more opportunities modeled after the training that I received from Mr. Tune at APPS.

Dear Buford,Thank you ever so much for the incredible in depth training my wife and I experience at the intermediate handgun defense course. The education on how to avoid and defuse dangerous situations was as important as the personalized instruction on how to use a handgun safely, responsibly, and effectively.I thank you for helping me and my family become safer in these unsafe times. The art of self defense is as important as staying out of debt and driving carefully. A responsible head of household makes sure all family members are prepared for life and are not trained to become dependent upon welfare, Tenncare, or security guards.Thank you again for the excellent work by you and your team.

Sincerely,Stephen Mitchell, MDCaptain, MC, USNR Retired

I just completed the Armed Security Training class with APPS and would like to pass this on. I have been to APPS training classes several times and each time I go it gets better. Buford and his team works so hard to make everyone understand the importance's of everything they teach in the class and on the range. Safety of everyone in class and on the range is always 1st. I have learn so much and will learn even more thru APPS which I feel to be very importance to me in my every day life and on the job. I would not go to or refer any to any other security training company. Thanks Buford and your team.

Jerry T. O'Neal - Security Manager, A.O. Smith Water Products

I am sending this letter to let everyone who reads it know what I Kevin P. Egan honestly think about the three days of classes that I took at APPS for my armed security guard license.Today just 5 hours ago I was on the shooting range with the APPS team. So everything I am saying is very fresh in my mind. I have taken handgun classes before and I was taught the basics. I was taught how to hold a gun, (which was wrong) how to shoot (which was wrong) and how to smile real big when I scored a 298 out of 300 on the range (Which Will Get You Killed). I lost a lot in the three days I spent with Mr. Tune and his staff. I lost my arrogance, my ignorant pride and my misconceived perception of how things really are. Now, for what I gained. I gained a true understanding of what I will deal with. I now know completely how much responsibility lies on MY shoulders while carrying a firearm. So much so that I have questioned myself, is this really the right thing for me? I have had the truth honestly presented before me and it made me think. For many who take this class they will seek alternative employment and rightly so. Mr. Buford Tune & his staff have brought realization home.I have to tell you, when I took a course for my Tennessee handgun permit 6 years ago it was all laughs and giggles. I went to the range and out performed everyone there including six police officers. My prior experience with a pistol was shooting into the ground on the 4th.Of July. Out of 150 rounds at 2 points per bull’s eye I missed one, and that one was on the edge. My manhood swelled. I was invincible. Five of those shots were from the hip. Man, I was hot. The instructor who also was an x-police officer and held a part time job as an Elvis impersonator didn’t give me a 300 because “as he said” no one should ever get a perfect score. I resented him for it. Looking back I should have failed the class. I had no idea what in the hell I was doing.On the range today Buford Tune gave me a passing score. Mr. Tune was generous. I made horrible mistakes. Mistakes, in a real world situation, would have the police chaplain tonight at my home explaining to my wife what happened. My POS automatic that I had been so proud of jammed twice. I had to eject three rounds to clear the jam. I fired once before receiving the command. I was scared and nervous. Why? Finally the true implications of what I may have to do hit home. I hadn’t felt this before. The instructor (Very patient, professional) helped me through this.The difference between the previous training and that by APPS, With APPS I was scared. My hands trembled. I knew that what I was doing was not shooting a paper target. These actions were saving my life and deciding my future as well of those of others. I learned real quickly that I need more training. Even with the superior beginners course (and I believe APPS is the best out there) APPS beginner training only scratches the surface of what’s needed. I’m shaken. What I do or not do could end my life or someone else’s. Mr. Tune brought it home.My God, what greater responsibility could be placed upon a person’s shoulders?Thank you Buford and staff. Your kind courteous and professional service will not be forgotten.

Sincerely;Kevin P Egan

I took a refresher course for the handgun permit from Buford Tune at APPS. WOW! I have been in the gun industry for over 40 years, and I thought I knew most of it, but Buford just blew me away. His command of the class was incredible. I took the handgun instructor's course several years ago, but Buford taught me more in two days about defensive shooting, and the do's and don’ts than I learned in over 40 years. I took my original carry permit class at ASP, the one-day wonder school in Joelton, but they just wasted my time. The kid that taught that class was sadly lacking. I cannot say enough about Buford Tune's command of the subject. He made us laugh, he made our blood boil, and he made us retain what he taught us. I feel that I learned "at the feet of the master."

John R. WallNashville, Tn.

Dear Mr. Tune: This follows training by you and your assistants on course entitled Tennessee Handgun Carrying Permit on September 20 and 21, 2003. I have attended and taught many training exercises in the 37 =BD years that I was in the Reserves, Tennessee Army National Guard and Regular Army. I have taught rifle and pistol training and shot on the National Guard Pistol Team. I received extensive training at the National Guard Marksmanship Training Facility here in Nashville several years ago. Your specialized training for personal protection was one of the best organized, best presented training exercises I have ever attended. Quite frankly, I was a bit apprehensive about going to the range with people who had never handled a firearm before. My apprehension was soon overcome as you progressed through such a detailed explanation and exhaustive application phase prior to the actual firing on the range. The shooters on each side of me were inexperienced with their revolvers but were very safe and became qualified to carry a revolver in self-defense.Of particular note was your instructors. Due to my hearing impairment, caused by artillery, piloting military airplanes, and machine gun, rifle and pistol practice, I was unable to hear your verbal range commands while wearing my hearing protector. Also, my personal National Match Grade Colt 1911 pistol malfunctioned (for the first time) and your staff was there instantly assisting me expertly and relaying the firing commands to me individually. He and the other assistant instructors were very knowledgeable, helpful and, like you, really cared for our safety and took great pains to make sure that we understood the law, understood our firearms, and used "common sense" in dealing with the untold myriad of circumstances which we might encounter, always emphasizing that we practice what you preached. You even kept us in class an additional two hours to make sure that we understood completely what you were teaching and fully answering our questions. I am pleased to recommend and indicate to anyone that your course is outstanding and, from what I have heard from others who have attended the courses of your competitors, you care more about our safety and will take whatever time is required to make sure that we are safe to ourselves and to others, and understand the law and the legal implications of our responsibilities, not only as citizens, but as citizens who have been granted a distinct privilege.

After 19 years as a bureaucrat, and a lifetime of being terrified of guns, I found something that I adored doing. Unfortunately, this wonderful 'hobby' required a law enforcement affiliation, and that required carrying and *gasp* actually learning to shoot a pistol. So, I contacted my local PD for assistance in trying to figure out how to get where I needed to be. Thankfully, the officer I called has turned into a friend, and recommended Buford highly. I didn't listen and just did what I needed to do the fastest way I could do it. When I got to the point where it was necessary, I quit my day job and decided a career shift was in order. With that shift came the incredible insight that I needed to get as trained as I could as fast as I could and from the best sources I could find. This is in addition to my basic law enforcement training, which has been outstanding so far. My friend again reminded me about Buford. So, with my last payroll check, I went to see APPS and signed up for every class that might even remotely apply. Billie and the rest of the staff are polite, helpful, and above all, they know what they're doing. The classes are absolutely worth every penny, and I've had some of the best law enforcement instructors. The way we've been taught to shoot in this class was immediately put to use in the field the first shift I worked following the class, and had the subject been a bad guy would have saved my life. In addition, the use of force model Buford teaches was immediately included in our manual because it just makes good common sense. Having had some boring classes, and having had Buford's I give you my word you won't be bored, and that what you take from the class will be worth the effort you put into being there.